MANILA, Philippines — At least three employees of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) were confirmed dead, two declared missing and at least 15 others injured when a fire broke out at the Waterfront Manila Pavilion hotel and casino at the corner of United Nations Avenue and Ma. The Manila Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the Manila Police District (MPD) identified the fatalities as treasury officer Jun Evangelista, assistant treasury officer Marilyn Omadto and security officer Billy de Castro, who were all declared dead on arrival at the nearby Manila Doctors Hospital. A fourth victim, who was initially declared dead, was revived by doctors. Manila City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council director Johnny Yu said at least 20 hotel guests were trapped on the fifth floor of the hotel but they were alive and communicating with the rescuers. The hotel has been undergoing renovation since last year, according to Pagcor senior manager Eric Balcos.

Source: Philippine Star March 18, 2018 16:00 UTC